AK Soufflé: Cut and dry

There’s grooming and there’s “grooming”, if like me you are a Corrie fan then you will know exactly what I mean as poor Bethany’s terrible tale unravels. But right now I am concerned with grooming as in pampering and personal detail.

I’ve long been a fan of the occasional manicure, massage and tonsorial titivation (look it up). Why not indulge in a little ‘me time’. But the whole idea of male grooming was for so long seen as… well let’s not mince words… pouffy, the domain of the poncey queen. Well stop right there! Think again, you only need to walk down any high street or shopping mall, drift into any bar or club to see that the straight world is out their getting a fake tan, a manicure and, dare I say it, a back crack and sack (reels in horror, and not available I hasten to say on this particular day).

Local company Red 7 have taken all this into account and whilst organising a wide range of hen and stag parties both here and abroad are now offering a rather more sophisticated option of a pampering day. Of course I was first in the queue to have a go, albeit not in advance of any nuptial ceremony. So I started out with a beer and a chat at Lipstick And Gunpowder before heading over the road for a manicure and glass of prosecco (declined) at Pretty People just across the road. First class, I do like having nice nails. I could have opted for a back massage too but a manicure is a real must if you want to cut the mustard as a dandy.

A manicure is a real must if you want to cut the mustard as a dandy

Back then to Lipstick And Gunpowder where my unruly locks were beaten into submission by a talented stylist and my beard and ‘tache given a new look which I am delighted with, sharper by far than the tangled mess it had become.

All that in place, it was round to Bison Beer for a tasting. Well it would have been rude to say no and I have to say the craft ales we tried were fascinating, one even having overtones of Irn Bru – well I do have a very sophisticated palette.

All done I felt and I hope looked a million dollars, relaxed and spruced up and certainly ready for a cocktail and a nibble at the Pitcher & Piano before heading off to a smart dinner.

You see a stag event can be stylish, so pack away the fancy dress and get fancy in a sophisticated and modern way.

With 32 years of experience, Red7 offers a full planning service – free of charge – from flights to activities and accommodation both in the UK and abroad. And is ATOL and ABTA protected. www.redsevenleisure.co.uk